Thursday

New York, Here We Come!

I am beyond thrilled for a trip that is a mere 22 days away ....
The exciting and always fun-filled bustling city of NEW YORK!

A very lucky girlfriend of mine attended an event where she won an expenses-paid trip to the city. Airfare, upscale hotel, and even $500 to support NY's lovely economy! Needless to say, she's having the Hermes vs. Louboutin great debate as we speak.

So two quick phone calls later, and she had two eager "YES" answers from myself and another girlfriend of ours to join her. We're heading there in March. I'm not quite sure the stores are ready for us.

I've been up several times already, so I'm fairly familiar with some of the most fabulous spots to visit, but I'm always up for suggestions in a city that is constantly changing and having great restaurants and shops to open their doors. So, questions for you girls...

1) What are our shopping must-visit stores/areas?
2) Restaurants we'd be crazy not to try?
3) Anything else we should put on our to-do list?

La esquina is great! If you want something totally wacky and off the beaten path that locals love....panna 2 in the east village :) Otto is Mario battali's pizzaria and it's easy on the pocket book and has great wine tastings! Del friscos grill Just opened up near Rockefeller and its delicious!

Oh my New York is my most favorite place in the world. I was last there during Thanksgiving and I miss it so much. To get some great buys check out Century 21 in the financial district. I bought some amazing shoes there, several handbags including a Michael Kors bag that I absolutely love, and some other things there at amazing prices. Avoid eating at the tourist trap restaurants in Time Square hug waste of money. While on 5th Ave. make sure to stop by Trump Tower and go to that little jewelry store that is on the left soon after you walk in. They have some super adorable jewelry that isn't that expensive.

The Juicy store on Fifth is amazing as well as a cigar store for the hubby.. Not sure what it's called it's on Fifth Ave. as well. There is an awesome deli in Times Square called Roxi's it's right by the big bleachers. And Ellen's Stardust Diner in Times Square too. There is a great place in Little Italy called Amici II. AHHHHH-MAZING! Must go Italian. Get the lobster ravioli and try every dessert! Ahh I miss NYC soo much!!

MUST DO: Magnolia's for cupcakes- Greenwich Village location is best, then travel over to Perry Street to see Carrie Bradshaw's apartment. Maison Laduree for Macaroons on the upper east side- sometimes the wait is long but they're delish and imported daily from paris. if you love italian food, EATALY is a must as well. delish prepared foods and they also have lots of neat food items for sale. Century 21 in the financial district for designer deals. Cafe St Ambroeus in the West Village is delish for a light italian style lunch as well. Also to find find trimmings and ribbons go to M+J in the design district. its next to MOOD fabrics where the designers from project runway shop!

Oh my gosh just had a girls trip there in Dec! GO TO Beauty and Essex, you need to make a reservation right now bc it is usually booked to the brim!!!!! It's absolutely the COOLEST place I have ever been! The women's room or parlor I should say has a Pink Champagne Bar- hidden gem! LOVE!

How fun!!! I work in Times Square... can you come visit me!? hahaI have to agree with the comments above... Babbo you must call exactly 1 month ahead at 9AM to get a res. I went to Otto with a group of friends a couple weekends ago and it was great.I love Essex and Penelope's for brunch... there are just so many great options. I have no doubt you will make your way to Madison Ave for shopping!